effects of diabetes

The Effects of Exercise on Diabetes

An interesting research suggests that our gene structures are programmed for exercise. In elaborating their claim, the researchers coined the evidence of the lifestyle of prehistoric humans. If any one of them were weak or did not have enough reflex to move quickly, he or she died. Those survived were fit enough to survive and reproduce to pass on this 'fitter' gene through generations.

The proponents of this theory believe that with our existing sedentary behavior the function of these 'fitter' get suppressed, hence result in maladaptive condition, leading to develop many chronic health complications like diabetes, cholesterol, blood pressure, heart disease and many others.

It is now a well-proven fact that physical activity is mandatory for the healthy management of the body, so is true even when you are suffering from diabetes. The effects of exercise on diabetes are actually profound. In this article we will shed light on different types of exercise and their effects on diabetes of both types.

Aerobic Exercise

If you are suffering from diabetes, quite commonly you will be suggested to practice low to moderate level of aerobic exercises which include walking, swimming, rowing, step classes, cross-country skiing and stair climbing. Research shows that practicing to a moderate level aerobic exercise has significant effects on diabetes of both types. In fact, adults with type 2 diabetes worked out for 150 minutes a week curtail their risk of progress quite extensively.

Resistance Training

Strength or resistance training does not necessarily mean that you need to plan making eight-abs or six-abs. On the contrary, when you are practicing resistance training for a better management of your diabetic condition, it means you are trying your best to keep your body and mind as active as possible. It helps to build stronger muscles and bones and help you to face daily tasks more effectively such as lugging household groceries more easily.

Flexibility Exercise

However, there is no study yet claiming any individual benefit of flexibility exercise, but this exercise helps to increase the flexibility of the joints' and other bodily muscles, leading to minimize the risk of being injured during other exercises. Gentle stretching for 5-10 minutes is usually recommended prior to any aerobic session. However, you may need the thorough guidance of your trainer during flexibility exercising session.

Overall Benefits

The effects of exercise on diabetes are always positive. It helps in lowering blood sugar, improving insulin sensitivity, as well as strengthening the heart condition. Strength training, in fact, may offer extensive positive effects on diabetes of both types, however, lacking sufficient data made in support of this particular aspect. Yoga also has abundant positive effects on diabetes of both types.